TODAY sees the launch of the annual Leofric Lions Coventry Walkathon, 15 years after it first started.

The landmark event at War Memorial Park on Sunday, May 15, will see hundreds of competitors – from brisk marchers to fancy dress plodders – raise cash for charity.

The Lions are calling on Telegraph people of all ages to register for the event now.

Since the event began a staggering £164,000 has been raised for charities and good causes.

Walkers are encouraged to complete as many laps of the park as they are able and can donate their sponsorship money to any charity they choose.

Participants could also donate to this year’s Lions Club nominated charity, the British Heart Foundation.

Organiser Reg Brown said: “I think this has got so popular because it’s out in the fresh air and people in Coventry just love walking.

“The most important thing about all of it is that the money people raise goes to charity. It’s subsidised by the Lions Club so every penny goes to good causes.”

Lion Club president Peter Davies said: “It raises a lot of money and it’s great because people can walk as many laps as they want.”

The British Heart Foundation is currently rounding up a 50-strong team of fundraisers to mark the charity’s 50th anniversary. Money raised will go to their Mending Broken Hearts Appeal.

Donna Stokes, British Heart Foundation fundraising manager, said: “At the moment the heart can’t heal itself. We can give people drugs but we can’t undo the damage after a heart attack.

“What we want to do with our research is to find a way of getting the cells to repair themselves.”

Mike Shearer, 72, from Cheadle Close, Longford, will be taking part for the 11th year running.

He said: “It’s a great event. You can raise sponsorship money and it’s in great surroundings. The route’s not too hilly so it’s suitable for most people.”

*To join the British Heart Foundation team email stokesd@bhf.org.uk or call Donna on 0121 353 2087. Call Reg Brown on 07766667349 for further details and fill in the form in today's Coventry Telegraph.